Veterinary Technology, A.A.S.

The mission of the Veterinary Technology degree program is to provide students with the academic, professional “hands-on” knowledge, and skills required to master the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Veterinary Technology Student Essential Skills which will prepare students as entry-level veterinary technicians, to successfully pass the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam), and to perform as effective veterinary health care team members. Students will exhibit conduct that reflects practice standards that are professional, ethical, and legal. Graduates of this program will recognize career opportunities in traditional and non-traditional settings such as private veterinary practice, biomedical research, academia, food safety, government agencies, zoos, and other animal health-related fields.

The length of time necessary for completion of the program is a minimum of 5 semesters. A minimum of 73 credit hours must be earned in specific coursework including general education and core program courses. Students must meet with the Program Advisor before registering for classes each semester. Students must pass the VTNE in order to graduate and apply for state licensure.

Officially admitted student requirements include:

• Students may be granted provisional admission by the Admissions Committee. Admissions Committee will evaluate academic performance on a semester-basis or schedule determined by the committee.
• Required to maintain a minimum cumulative G.P.A. of 2.50 in program core and a grade of C is considered passing for each program core course. Failure to earn a C in a core course will result in repeating the failed course one year later before progressing into the next semester as the courses build on each other.
• If you leave the program for any reason other than failing a course (thus, waiting one year to repeat the course) must request for readmission through the Admissions Committee. Process may require submission of another application and required documents, volunteer work, interview, etc.
• Required equipment and supplies to bring to class, lab, clinical rotation, and field: calculator, scrub top, smock, stethoscope, digital thermometer, bandage scissors, equine/bovine weight tapes, black sharpie pen, and rubber boots.
• Extra time is required when taking VET 090  which are to participate in on-call duty, clinic duty, and livestock duty, and participate in community veterinary service and outreach while in the program according to schedule developed by Program Director and faculty. Failure to complete assigned duties will result in dismissal from the program or a failing grade in VET 090 .
• Pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) prior to graduating. Students will receive a failing grade in VET 250 - Veterinary Technician National Examination Review  course until passing the exam.
• Pay for the VTNE exam fee however will be reimbursed for one exam fee upon passing. Students will not be reimbursed exam fees for failed attempts of passing the exam.
• Officially admitted students will be required to complete semesters 2, 4, and 5 courses following a modified schedule in preparation to sit for the VTNE from July 15 - August 15.

Other requirements for admission into the Veterinary Technology Program can be found under Admission